Location:: The incident occurred on the M25 between Junction 6 (Godstone) and Junction 5 (M26/Sevenoaks).
Initial Closure:: The anti-clockwise carriageway was closed first due to the lorry fire.
Full Closure:: Subsequently, the clockwise carriageway was also shut due to safety concerns over smoke levels billowing across the motorway.
Impact:: The closure blocked access to the M26 westbound and the A21 northbound link road, causing significant congestion.
Response:: Emergency services, including Kent Fire Service and National Highways traffic officers, attended the scene.
Why this matters:: The M25 is one of the UK's busiest motorways. Unplanned closures like this cause widespread disruption, impacting commuters, freight transport, and local traffic, leading to significant economic and personal time costs.
The incident involved a lorry catching fire on the anti-clockwise section of the M25 near Sevenoaks. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to manage the situation.
While the fire itself was contained to the lorry on the anti-clockwise side, the significant amount of smoke generated posed a visibility and safety risk. This led National Highways to take the precautionary measure of closing the clockwise carriageway as well, effectively shutting down this vital transport artery in both directions for a period.
National Highways implemented a diversion route marked by the Hollow Square symbol. Motorists caught in the closure or approaching the area were advised:
Exit the M25 at Junction 6.
Follow the A22 towards East Grinstead.
Take the A25 towards Westerham (via Limpsfield, Oxted, Brasted, Sundridge).
Rejoin the M25 at the A25/M25 traffic signal junction towards the Dartford Crossing.
Efforts focused on extinguishing the fire, which was expected to take considerable time, and then safely removing the damaged vehicle. National Highways reported moving the burning trailer off the main carriageway to facilitate reopening. Traffic on the M25 clockwise, M26 westbound, and A21 northbound was released first, with the anti-clockwise carriageway reopening anticipated shortly after the vehicle was fully cleared.
Which part of the M25 was affected by the lorry fire?
The closure was implemented between Junction 6 (Godstone) and Junction 5 (M26/Sevenoaks) in Kent.
Why were both directions of the M25 closed?
The anti-clockwise side was closed due to the fire itself. The clockwise side was closed later due to heavy smoke reducing visibility and posing a safety risk.
Is the M25 reopen now?
The clockwise carriageway, M26 westbound, and A21 northbound link were reopened after the vehicle was moved. The anti-clockwise section was expected to reopen soon after, but motorists should check live traffic updates for the latest status.
Check Before Travel:: Always consult live traffic information (e.g., National Highways website, traffic apps) before starting journeys on major routes like the M25.
Allow Extra Time:: Incidents can cause unexpected and lengthy delays. Factor in extra time, especially during peak hours.
Follow Diversions:: Pay attention to official diversion signs (like the Hollow Square symbol in this case) – they are planned to manage traffic flow as effectively as possible during closures.
Consider Alternatives:: If possible, re-route your journey or delay travel until the incident is cleared.
Who This Affects Most:: Commuters using this stretch of the M25, haulage and delivery drivers relying on the orbital route, and residents/businesses near the diversion routes (A22/A25) who experience increased local traffic.
This incident highlights the potential for sudden disruption on major motorways. Do you think enough information is provided to drivers during such events? Let us know!
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Source 1: M25 chaos: Lorry fire causes major motorway to shut - GB News target="_blank"
Source 2: M25 closed between Junction 5 and 6 near Sevenoaks due to lorry fire - Kent Online target="_blank"
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